The legendary 1999 U.S. Women's Soccer team is about to get the star-studded treatment on Netflix! Get ready to relive the magic as the upcoming drama, 'The 99'ers,' expands its impressive roster with six new talented actresses set to embody these iconic athletes.
This series promises to transport us back to a pivotal moment in sports history, and the casting news is just heating up! We're thrilled to announce that Julia McDermott, Shaunette Renée Wilson, Perry Mattfeld, Annabel O’Hagan, Lizzy Greene, and Isabelle Fuhrman are joining the ensemble. These actresses will bring to life some of the most memorable figures from the groundbreaking 1999 U.S. Women's National Soccer Team.
But here's where it gets exciting: we now know who will be stepping into the cleats of these soccer legends! Julia McDermott is set to play the fierce defender Brandi Chastain, instantly recognizable for her iconic celebration. Shaunette Renée Wilson will take on the formidable role of goalkeeper Briana Scurry, whose saves were crucial to the team's success. Perry Mattfeld will channel the powerhouse forward and midfielder Michelle Akers, a true force on the field. Annabel O’Hagan is slated to portray the inspiring '99 World Cup team captain, Carla Overbeck. Lizzy Greene will embody the dynamic midfielder Kristine Lilly, a player known for her incredible skill and longevity. And rounding out this stellar group, Isabelle Fuhrman will portray the solid defender Joy Fawcett.
As previously revealed, Zoey Deutch is leading the charge as the visionary U.S. Women's soccer executive, Marla Messing. She was instrumental in orchestrating the massively successful 1999 World Cup, a tournament that shattered attendance and television viewership records, forever changing the landscape of women's sports. We'll also see Emily Bader and Emilia Jones stepping in as teammates Mia Hamm and Julie Foudy, respectively, and Alessandro Nivoa will be the Head Coach Tony DiCicco.
This captivating series is based on the acclaimed 2000 HarperPerennial book, 'The Girls of Summer: The U.S. Women's Soccer Team and How It Changed the World' by Jeré Longman. 'The 99'ers' will delve into the incredible journey of the U.S. Women's National Soccer Team in 1999. They faced immense challenges and defied all expectations to clinch a dramatic victory in the World Cup final against China, decided by a nail-biting penalty kick shootout. Imagine the scene: a stadium packed with 93,000 fans under the scorching summer sun, witnessing a moment that would resonate with millions globally and fundamentally alter the trajectory of women's athletics.
Guiding this epic story are director Nicole Kassell and a talented writing team including Katie Lovejoy, Dana Stevens, and Peter Hedges. The initial creative spark for the project came from writers Jill Mazursky and Jamee Decio. Producing this ambitious endeavor is Liza Chasin for 3Dot Productions, in collaboration with Hayley Stool and Ross Greenburg. Marla Messing, Jill Mazursky, and Krista Smith are also on board as executive producers, ensuring an authentic and impactful portrayal.
And this is the part most people miss: the intricate web of representation behind the scenes! Julia McDermott is represented by CAA, D2 Management, and Johnson Shapiro Slewett & Kole. Shaunette Renée Wilson is with CAA, Monica Villarreal, and Fox Rothschild. Perry Mattfeld is handled by Innovative. Annabel O’Hagan has representation from MJ Management, Stewart Talent, and Sloane Offer Weber & Dern. Lizzy Greene is repped by Verve, Brave Artists Management, and Gang, Tyre, Ramer. Lastly, Isabelle Fuhrman is with UTA, Luber Roklin, and Jackoway Austen Tyerman.
Now, over to you! The 1999 World Cup win was more than just a game; it was a cultural phenomenon. Do you believe this series will capture the full spirit of that moment, or do you think it's impossible to truly replicate the raw emotion of that historic victory? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
